Senate Reauthorizes the Violence Against Women Act

The Senate took a step in the right direction with the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. (Photo credit unknown)

In the midst of a supposed “War on Women,” Congress has found at least some backbone in protecting those so close to us.

The Violence Against Women Act was approved for reauthorization in the U.S. Senate by a vote of 68-31. The legislation has to be renewed every five years. It provides assistance and support to those who suffer from domestic violence. Every time the bill is up for renewal, new groups of people are afforded its protections.

There was some contention in the Senate because Republicans were in a Catch-22. They didn’t want to be seen as blocking the bill because it would contribute to the Democratic narrative that the GOP launched a “War on Women.” On the other hand, the new protections afforded to same-sex couples, illegal immigrants, and non-Native Americans on tribal lands didn’t sit well with them.

Seems as if the Senate passed the bill because no one wants to be known someone who doesn’t support women. There were 15 Republicans who sided with Democrats to get the legislation through. Still, I don’t see how 31 senators could oppose this bill. Insane!

The legislation is now headed back to the House for a vote. Republicans there will face the same Catch-22 about affording protections to groups that normally push their buttons — gays, illegals, etc.

For a complete list of the senators and their votes on the Violence Against Women Act, click here.

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ANSWER IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW:

What do you think about the hesitation some legislators are showing in reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act?